National Cheeseburger Day is one of those deliciously quirky food holidays that Americans can’t resist celebrating. Every year on September 18, burger lovers across the country gather around the grill—or head to their favorite fast-food joints—to indulge in one of America’s most iconic comfort foods: the cheeseburger.
For 2025, the celebrations are bigger, bolder, and cheesier than ever. With major chains, local burger spots, and even gourmet restaurants offering special deals, discounts, and limited-edition creations, this year’s National Cheeseburger Day promises to be unforgettable.
If you’re wondering where to find $1 burgers, freebies, and the best deals, this ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know—organized in a sequence-wise, user-friendly way so you won’t miss a bite.
1. What is National Cheeseburger Day?
Before we dive into the deals, let’s take a moment to appreciate this day.
- Origin of the cheeseburger: While the exact inventor is debated, many credit Lionel Sternberger in Pasadena, California, who, in the 1920s, reportedly added a slice of cheese to a sizzling hamburger patty, forever changing the culinary landscape.
- Why September 18? Food holidays often don’t have a deep historical background but are chosen for marketing and celebration purposes. Over time, September 18 became the official date recognized for cheeseburger lovers.
- Cultural significance: The cheeseburger is more than just food; it’s a symbol of Americana, fast food culture, and backyard BBQs. National Cheeseburger Day gives everyone a reason to celebrate this comfort food classic.
2. Why Celebrate in 2025?
This year is special because:
- Bigger promotions: Chains are competing harder than ever to grab attention, meaning more deals for customers.
- Inflation-busting treats: With food prices rising, scoring a $1 burger is a welcome relief.
- Social media buzz: Expect hashtags like #NationalCheeseburgerDay, #CheeseburgerLovers, and #BurgerDeals2025 to trend all day. Sharing your burger pics might even score you freebies!
3. National Cheeseburger Day 2025: The Best Burger Deals and Discounts
Here’s the list you’ve been waiting for—the hottest deals from national chains, local favorites, and delivery apps.
🍔 McDonald’s
- Deal: $0.50 Double Cheeseburgers (via the app)
- Requirement: Download the McDonald’s app and claim the deal under “Daily Offers.”
- Tip: Pair it with their $1 soft drink for a filling meal under $2.
🍔 Burger King
- Deal: $1 Cheeseburgers (limit 3 per order)
- Bonus: Members of the BK Rewards program can also earn double points on cheeseburger purchases.
- Tip: Order online for faster pickup and to skip the lines.
🍔 Wendy’s
- Deal: Free Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger with any purchase of $2 or more.
- Tip: Buy fries and a drink, and your burger is essentially free.
🍔 Shake Shack
- Deal: BOGO (Buy One Get One Free) ShackBurger.
- How: Redeem through the Shake Shack app or online.
- Bonus: Perfect for sharing—or doubling up for yourself.
🍔 Five Guys
- Deal: 20% off all cheeseburgers ordered online.
- Tip: Customize with unlimited toppings at no extra cost.
🍔 Smashburger
- Deal: $5 Classic Double Smash Cheeseburger.
- Bonus: Rewards members get exclusive coupons valid throughout September.
🍔 Sonic Drive-In
- Deal: Half-price cheeseburgers after 5 p.m. (through the Sonic app).
- Bonus: Pair with their famous shakes for a sweet-and-savory celebration.
🍔 Applebee’s
- Deal: $6 Cheeseburger & Fries combo.
- Dine-in or order online for pickup.
🍔 Local Burger Joints
Don’t forget to check your neighborhood burger spots. Many independent restaurants join the fun by offering discounted cheeseburgers or creating special, limited-edition flavors.
4. Delivery Apps Offering Burger Deals
Even if you don’t want to leave the couch, you can still celebrate National Cheeseburger Day 2025. Delivery apps are joining the party with exclusive promotions.
- DoorDash: Up to 50% off cheeseburgers from select restaurants.
- Uber Eats: $5 off orders of $25+ with promo code BURGERDAY25.
- Grubhub: Free delivery on burger orders from participating restaurants.
- Postmates: BOGO cheeseburgers at select chains.
5. Tips to Score the Best Cheeseburger Day Deals
- Download apps early: Most deals are app-exclusive, so sign up ahead of time.
- Check local times: Some promotions only run during specific hours.
- Order early: Deals sell out quickly, especially at busy chains.
- Stack rewards: Use loyalty programs to earn points while enjoying your discounts.
- Go with friends: Share BOGO offers and try different variations together.
6. Fun Ways to Celebrate at Home
Not in the mood to go out? You can still join the celebration at home with creativity:
- DIY Cheeseburger Bar: Set up buns, patties, cheeses, and toppings so everyone can build their dream burger.
- Experiment with cheeses: Go beyond American cheese—try cheddar, pepper jack, blue cheese, or Gouda.
- Pair with sides: Fries, onion rings, and milkshakes make the experience complete.
- Host a burger contest: Compete with friends or family to see who can make the most creative cheeseburger.
7. Healthier Cheeseburger Alternatives
Not everyone wants to indulge in heavy fast food, and that’s okay. Celebrate with a healthier twist:
- Turkey or chicken burgers for leaner protein.
- Plant-based options like Impossible Burger or Beyond Meat.
- Lettuce wraps instead of buns for low-carb diets.
- Air fryer patties for a less greasy version.
This way, you can enjoy the day without straying from your wellness goals.
8. The Social Media Factor
National Cheeseburger Day isn’t just about eating—it’s about sharing. Posting your burger creations or deal hauls can make the experience even more fun.
- Use hashtags like #NationalCheeseburgerDay2025, #BurgerGoals, and #CheesePlease.
- Tag restaurants for a chance to get reposted.
- Share recipe videos if you’re making burgers at home.
9. Cheeseburger Fun Facts to Impress Your Friends
- The world’s largest cheeseburger weighed over 2,000 pounds.
- Americans consume nearly 50 billion burgers annually.
- Adding cheese became popular in the 1920s and 1930s, quickly spreading nationwide.
- September 18 is for cheeseburgers, while May 28 is National Hamburger Day.
10. Wrapping It Up: Don’t Miss Out on National Cheeseburger Day 2025
National Cheeseburger Day 2025 is more than just a food holiday—it’s an excuse to indulge, save money, and enjoy one of America’s most beloved comfort foods. Whether you’re chasing $1 burgers at Burger King, scoring BOGOs at Shake Shack, or making your own gourmet creation at home, there’s no wrong way to celebrate.
This year, the deals are hotter, cheesier, and more rewarding than ever. So grab your appetite, download those apps, and get ready to savor the ultimate cheeseburger experience.
Conclusion
National Cheeseburger Day 2025 is more than just a quirky food holiday—it’s a nationwide celebration of flavor, fun, and unbeatable deals. From $1 burgers at fast-food giants to gourmet creations at local eateries, everyone has the chance to indulge without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dining out, grabbing delivery, or firing up the grill at home, September 18 is your golden ticket to savor one of America’s most beloved comfort foods
